The name of the LORD
In ancient Hebrew culture, a name was more than just a label; it represented the character and essence of a person. The "name of the LORD" refers to God's revealed character and attributes, such as His power, faithfulness, and holiness. Throughout the Old Testament, God's name is associated with His covenant relationship with Israel (Exodus 3:14-15). The name of the LORD signifies His presence and authority, as seen in the use of His name in blessings and oaths (Numbers 6:24-27).

is a strong tower;
A strong tower in ancient times was a place of refuge and defense, often part of a city's fortifications. It provided safety from enemies and a vantage point for watching over the surrounding area. This metaphor illustrates God's protection and strength, offering security to those who trust in Him. The imagery of God as a fortress is common in the Psalms (Psalm 18:2, Psalm 61:3), emphasizing His role as a protector and deliverer.

the righteous run to it
The righteous are those who live in accordance with God's will and seek His guidance. Running to the strong tower implies urgency and reliance on God's protection. This action reflects a conscious decision to seek refuge in God's character and promises. The concept of running to God for safety is echoed in other scriptures, such as Psalm 46:1, which describes God as "a very present help in trouble."

and are safe.
Safety in this context refers to spiritual security and peace, rather than just physical protection. The righteous find safety in God's presence, experiencing His peace and assurance even amidst life's challenges. This safety is not just temporary but eternal, as God promises to be a refuge for His people (Isaiah 26:3-4). The ultimate fulfillment of this safety is found in Jesus Christ, who provides eternal security and salvation for believers (John 10:28-29).

1. The LORD (YHWH)
The covenant name of God, representing His eternal, self-existent nature and His relationship with His people.

2. The Righteous
Those who are in right standing with God, often characterized by their faith and obedience to His commandments.

3. Strong Tower
A metaphorical place of refuge and safety, symbolizing God's protection and strength.Understanding God's Name
The name of the LORD represents His character and promises. Knowing God's name means understanding His nature and trusting in His faithfulness.

Seeking Refuge in God
Just as a strong tower provides safety, God offers protection to those who seek Him. In times of trouble, believers are encouraged to run to God for security and peace.

Righteousness and Safety
The verse highlights that it is the righteous who find safety in God. This underscores the importance of living a life aligned with God's will to experience His protection.

Metaphor of the Strong Tower
The imagery of a strong tower suggests stability, strength, and an elevated perspective. Believers can find these qualities in their relationship with God.

Practical Trust in God
Trusting in God as a strong tower involves practical steps of faith, such as prayer, reading Scripture, and relying on His promises in daily life.(10) The name of the Lord is a strong tower.--The "name of the Lord" signifies the titles by which He has made Himself known, descriptive of His attributes, as "merciful, gracious, longsuffering, abundant in goodness and truth," &c. (Exodus 34:5; Exodus 34:7); the righteous takes refuge in these, and finds himself in safety, lifted above the trouble which seemed ready to overwhelm him. The rich man's "strong city" and "high wall" are such only in "his own conceit," and fail him in the time of need. (Comp. Proverbs 23:5.)

Verse 10. - The Name of the Lord is a strong tower. The Name of the Lord signifies all that God is in himself - his attributes, his love, mercy, power, knowledge; which allow man to regard him as a sure Refuge. "Thou hast been a Shelter for me," says the psalmist (Psalm 61:3), "and a strong Tower from the enemy." The words bring before us a picture of a capitol, or central fortress, in which, at times of danger, the surrounding population could take refuge. Into this Name we Christians are baptized; and trusting in it, and doing the duties to which our profession calls, with faith and prayer, we are safe in the storms of life and the attacks of spiritual enemies. The righteous runneth into it (the tower), and is safe; literally, is set on high; exaltabitur, Vulgate; he reaches a position where he in set above the trouble or the danger that besets him. Thus St. Peter, speaking of Christ, exclaims (Acts 4:12), "Neither is there salvation in any other; for there is none other Name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." "Prayer," says Tertullian ('De Orat.,' 29), "is the wall of faith, our arms and weapons against man who is always watching us. Therefore let us never go unarmed, night or day. Under the arms of prayer let us guard the standard of our Leader; let us wait for the angel's trumpet, praying." Septuagint, "From the greatness of his might is the Name of the Lord; and running unto it the righteous are exalted."

Parallel Commentaries ...


The name
שֵׁ֣ם (šêm)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 8034: A name

of the LORD
יְהוָ֑ה (Yah·weh)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3069: YHWH

is a strong
עֹ֭ז (‘ōz)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 5797: Strength, might

tower;
מִגְדַּל־ (miḡ·dal-)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 4026: A tower, a rostrum, a, bed of flowers

the righteous
צַדִּ֣יק (ṣad·dîq)
Adjective - masculine singular
Strong's 6662: Just, righteous

run to it
יָר֖וּץ (yā·rūṣ)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 7323: To run

and are safe.
וְנִשְׂגָּֽב׃ (wə·niś·gāḇ)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Nifal - Conjunctive perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 7682: To be, lofty, inaccessible, safe, strong


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OT Poetry: Proverbs 18:10 The name of Yahweh is a strong (Prov. Pro Pr)